Last year we told you about how you can go to visit the huge oak tree featured at the end of The Shawshank Redemption. Well, it turns out you might want to take that trip as soon as possible because the tree may sadly be gone soon.
Last Friday, a storm did major damage to the tree that stands in Mansfield, Ohio. Louis Andres of the Malabar Farm State Park told the Mansfield Journal that straight line winds split the tree. “The tree was rotted in the middle,” he said. “I’m sorry to see it go. It’s a landmark. A lot of people always are asking about it.”
Lee Tasseff, Mansfield-Richland County Convention and Visitors Bureau president, also told the Mansfield Journal that the tree’s possible demise is a tragedy, saying “it’s a very sentimental part of the trail.” Tasseff also says that people have asked to propose under the tree, but because it’s on private property they are unable to get that close.
While the tree may not survive the damage done by the storm winds, there is still hope. According to 411mania.com, a Convention and Visitors Bureau representative has reported that the Mansfield community is working together to try to save the tree that has been a big tourist attraction for the town. The owners of the property will be meeting with officials to see what they can do. In the meantime, the rep is encouraging you to take your trip to Ohio now if you want to catch a glimpse of the ‘Shawshank’ tree! ““We highly encourage folks who want to see the tree in its natural location to visit now, while part of it remains standing.”
About Jennifer Mishler
Jennifer is an animal advocate and activist. She is a volunteer coordinator with The Girls Gone Green, a nonprofit organization advocating for animals rights, veganism, and environmentalism. She is also an Onshore Volunteer with the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, and a volunteer with CJ Acres Animal Rescue Farm, a nonprofit that rescues and rehabilitates farm animals. Along with writing for Ecorazzi, she writes about veganism and animal rights on her blog, A Dog's Eye View. She lives in Jacksonville, FL with her husband and their three animal friends. Follow Jennifer on Twitter: @jennygoneveganView all posts by Jennifer Mishler →
